An unexpected workplace accident can put your livelihood at risk. You may no longer be able to work and earn your wages due to your injuries. Fortunately, you may be entitled to workers’ compensation benefits.
In Virginia, claiming your workers’ compensation benefits involves informing your employer and filing the relevant paperwork with the Virginia Workers Compensation Commission. However, making these mistakes in the claims process can decrease your chances of getting the benefits, as detailed below.
1. Not seeing a doctor
A doctor’s report can provide crucial medical evidence that can be relied upon when processing your claim. For instance, it can help show the nature of your injuries and how they affect your ability to work. It can also indicate how long it will take for you to recover or improve.
2. Failing to notify your employer
Workers in Virginia have 30 days to inform their employer of a workplace accident. Going beyond the stipulated legal window can harm your claim, and it may be impossible to claim any benefits.
3. Social media activity that raises eyebrows
Your posts on social media could come under scrutiny, especially where the nature of your injuries is unclear. As such, you should be very keen on what you share with the rest of the world on social media.
You may post an innocent picture hiking with friends or enjoying yourself, which could raise questions on the extent of the injuries you claim to have suffered.
4. Not seeking legal assistance
If you are unsure of your legal rights as an injured worker and what you need to do to get workers’ compensation benefits, you ought to look for help in handling your claim. With the necessary guidance, avoiding these and more pitfalls that could delay or jeopardize your claim will be much easier.
